Walking the Camino Francés

Introduction to the French Way

The Camino Francés – also called the French Way – is the most famous of all Camino de Santiago routes. This iconic pilgrimage stretches roughly 790 km (490 mi) from Saint‑Jean‑Pied‑de‑Port on the French side of the Pyrenees to the Cathedral of Santiago de Compostela in Spain. It crosses four regions of northern Spain—Navarra, La Rioja, Castile and León, and Galicia—and attracts hundreds of thousands of pilgrims every year. In 2024 the Pilgrim’s Reception Office recorded 236 381 completions. Walking the entire trail usually takes 30–34 days, with most people averaging about 25 km per day.

History and Significance

The French Way is more than a long-distance walk; it is an ancient pilgrimage tracing the route taken by medieval Christians to the tomb of St James the Greater. Over centuries, paths from Paris, Vézelay, Le Puy‑en‑Velay and other French towns converged at Saint‑Jean‑Pied‑de‑Port before crossing the Pyrenees to Roncesvalles. From there the trail winds through Pamplona, Logroño, Burgos and León before reaching Santiago. The Camino Francés is recognised by UNESCO as part of the Routes of Santiago de Compostela: Camino Francés and Routes of Northern Spain World Heritage listing and was named the first European Cultural Route in 1987.

Planning Your Journey

Route overview

Walking the entire Camino Francés demands commitment but rewards hikers with diverse landscapes, cultures and cuisines. A typical journey covers 30–34 days, though cyclists can complete it in two weeks and some horse‑riders in ten days. The surface alternates between asphalt/tar (about 290 km) and footpaths or gravel tracks (about 500 km), with roughly 70 km of quiet road walking. The cumulative ascent is around 13 134 m, while the descent totals 12 248 m. Expect to spend €30–35 per person per day on basic accommodation, food and incidentals; staying in private rooms or indulging in restaurant meals will increase the budget.

Segment table

Must‑see towns and cultural highlights

• Pamplona – Famed for the Running of the Bulls festival and its Gothic cathedral.
• La Rioja and Logroño – Spain’s celebrated wine region; sample local tapas and vintage wines.
• Burgos – Home to the imposing Burgos Cathedral, a masterpiece of Castilian Gothic architecture.
• León – A lively university city with a breathtaking 13th‑century cathedral and vibrant tapas scene.
• Ponferrada – Known for the Templar Castle that once protected pilgrims crossing the Sil River.
• O Cebreiro – A mountain village of pallozas (stone roundhouses) where legends say the Holy Grail once appeared.

Accommodation and Budget

Public albergues – Dormitory‑style hostels run by municipalities or parish churches; donations or small fees (5–15 € per night).

Private albergues and hostels – More amenities, smaller dorms or private rooms; 15–30 € per night.

Hotels and guesthouses – Comfortable rooms with en‑suite bathrooms; 35–60 € per night.

Many pilgrims book accommodation on the day, but in busy seasons (spring and autumn) it’s wise to reserve ahead—particularly in popular towns like Sarria. Use online booking platforms or apps tailored to the Camino (affiliate link examples below).

Estimated daily expenses

Affiliate tip: Book your albergues and hotels through Booking.com or CaminoWays to secure a bed and support this site. Always confirm cancellation policies.

Packing and Preparation

Walking hundreds of kilometres requires thoughtful packing. Keep your backpack under 10 % of your body weight and prioritise comfort. Essentials include:

• Lightweight backpack (35–40 L) – with good waist and chest straps.
• Quality hiking shoes – waterproof and broken‑in.
• Moisture‑wicking layers – shirts, quick‑dry trousers and insulating fleece.
• Rain gear – poncho or waterproof jacket and trousers.
• Sun protection – wide‑brim hat, sunglasses and sunscreen.
• Sleep sack & travel towel – some albergues require them.
• Trekking poles – reduce strain on knees during long descents.
• Power bank & universal adapter – to charge devices.

For a full list, see our Camino packing guide. Below are sample affiliate links to recommended gear:

• Waterproof hiking boots – durable and breathable.
• 40 L ultralight backpack – adjustable fit.
• Trekking poles – collapsible carbon fibre.
• Microfibre travel towel – quick drying.
• Universal travel adapter.

Training and fitness

Begin training at least three months before your departure. Gradually increase walking distances on varied terrain and practise carrying your loaded backpack. Include hill training and some back‑to‑back walking days to simulate the Camino schedule. Stretching, core exercises and balanced nutrition will help prevent injuries.

When to Go

The best seasons to walk the French Way are April–June and September–October, when temperatures are mild and albergues are open. July and August can be very hot on the Meseta and crowded in tourist towns; winter walking is possible but many services close and high‑altitude passes may be snowy. Always check local weather and prepare for sudden changes, especially in the Pyrenees and Galicia.

Cultural Etiquette and Tips

• Start early – Many pilgrims begin before dawn to beat the heat and secure beds.
• Carry cash – Some small albergues and cafés do not accept cards.
• Respect quiet hours – Lights out is usually at 10 p.m. in albergues.
• Learn basic Spanish – Simple greetings and phrases ease interactions.
• Stamps (sellos) – Collect a stamp in your credencial each day from churches, albergues or cafés to receive your Compostela certificate in Santiago.
• Travel insurance – Protect yourself against cancellations or injuries; our preferred partner World Nomads covers adventurous trips.

Conclusion

The Camino Francés is more than a walk—it's a life‑changing journey through history, culture and stunning landscapes. Whether you seek spiritual reflection, physical challenge or simply a slower way to explore Spain, the French Way offers it all. With the right preparation and a spirit of openness, you’ll join a tradition that has inspired pilgrims for over a millennium. Buen Camino!